FAQ

We may know the answer to your question already – below is a list of the most common queries our customers have but if it’s not on here, or you wish us to elaborate on one that is, please get in touch – Contact Us

What is a Swift-Cut plasma cutting machine?

Our Swift-Cut CNC plasma cutting machines allow users to cut a range of metals, including steel, to any shape with a very high degree of accuracy and with a smooth edge. Our range of plasma cutting machines are designed to suit metal fabricators of all types, including artists, structural engineers, blacksmiths, educators, and more.

Are there any special electrical requirements?

Our Swift-Cut console runs on 230 volts and needs only a single-phase power supply. Our smaller machines can also run on a single-phase power supply providing they’re using a Hypertherm Powermax 45. To power a machine with a Hypertherm Powermax 65, 85, or 105, you will need a 3-phase power supply.

Do I need a powerful computer?

Each of our machines comes with a console that hosts a pre-programmed PC to use with the machine.

What is DCC?

DCC (Dynamic Cut Control) gives you ultimate control over your plasma machine and cut path, allowing you to fine tune any part of the cut profile. Here at Swift-Cut, we’re proud to offer this unique feature on our plasma cutting range, giving you the best cut possible every time you use one of our machines.

What is DTHC?

DTHC (Digital Torch Height Control) maintains an even cut across the material you’re cutting, even if you’re cutting a warped of uneven piece of metal. Each of our machines is equipped with the very latest DTHC technology to give you the best cut possible, every time.

What is CAD and CAM?

Our Swift-Cut plasma cutting machines come with a console PC fully equipped with CAD (Computer Aided Design) software. This software allows you to create and upload digital images and will convert them into machine code, this is called CAM (Computer Aided Manufacturing), so they can then be processed and produced by the plasma cutting machine.

What is G-Code?

G-Code is the language used to tell the cutting head where to go and where to cut.

How fast will the machine cut steel?

Our Swift-Cut machines can cut at a maximum speed of 12.7 metres per minute but please keep in mind that the cutting speed depends on the thickness of steel as well as which Hypertherm Powermax unit is being used.

What thickness of material will it cut?

Our machines cut to a maximum metal thickness of 22mm. It’s not the machine model that mandates the thickness of the metal being cut but rather the power of the plasma unit being used. For more information, please refer to our Hypertherm Powermax information page or contact us . We’re more than happy to guide you toward choosing the right Hypertherm Powermax unit for your metal cutting needs.

Can I cut small holes in a steel plate?

Our machines follow the 2D Rule. As such, when cutting a plate that is 2mm thick, the smallest hole that it can cut is 4mm in diameter.

What is the average cutting speed on a Swift-Cut CNC Plasma Cutting machine?

The cutting speed will vary between 28” per minute to 200” per minute depending on the material being cut and the material’s thickness. Please refer to the handbook or contact us for more information.

What exactly is plasma and how does it work to cut metal?

Coming after solid, liquid, and gas, plasma is the 4th state of matter. When you heat gas enough, the atoms split, separating the electrons form the nucleus. Once the heat releases the electrons, they begin to move quickly. These electrons are negatively charged and, as they move, they leave behind a positively charged nuclei known as an ion. When these ions and electrons collide, they release energy– lots of it!– and it is this energy that gives plasma its great cutting power.

Plasma cutters operate by sending pressurised gas, such as nitrogen, argon or oxygen, through a small channel with a negatively charged electrode in the center of it. When power is applied to this negative electrode and the nozzle touches the metal, a circuit is created and a spark is generated between the electrode and the metal. This spark heats the inert gas to the point that it turns into plasma and it releases a direct stream. This plasma stream is approximately 16,649˚ C and moves at a speed of 20,000 feet per second. When it comes in contact with metal, the plasma reduces it to molten slag.

As long as power is supplied to the electrode and the plasma stays in contact with the metal, this plasma arc will be continuous. To maintain this connection, the nozzle releases a constant flow of shielding gas around the cutting area and the radius of the plasma beam will be dependent on the pressure of this gas shield.

Can I use my own hand torch with the machine?

Our machines are designed to be used with a dedicated machine torch. We do not recommend using hand torches or any other torches on our machines.

What is the benefit of the water machine?

Water machines are a cost-effective way of minimising harmful sparks and fumes that come as a result of cutting certain types of metals. Water machines are easy to care for, quiet, and less expensive than downdraft machines. Available on all machine sizes: Pro Series 1250, 2500 and 3000, water machines are a great option for many of our customers.

Can I use my own CAD program such as AutoCAD?

Yes. The CAD software used on our machines reads .DXF files. Whether you’re creating an image in Corel Draw, AutoCAD or Adobe Illustrator, if file is saved as a .DXF, it is compatible with our software.

Can I see a demo?

Absolutely. Please contact us directly to schedule a demonstration. If you send us a drawing of a part you would like to make as a .DXF file we’ll cut it out for you to show you how easy it is.

How long do the consumable tips last on the Hypertherm machine?

The lifespan of your consumables will be determined by how often the machine is used, what materials it’s cutting, and which Hypertherm Powermax unit is being used. It’s important to us that our customers get the absolute most out of their machines, so we designed our machines with DTHC (Digital Torch Height Control) to maximise the lifespan of consumables. Dry air is also a very important in maximising the lifespan of the consumables, so please make sure your machine is kept in a dry environment. For more information, please refer to our handbooks.

Do I need to wear safety glasses?

Safety is always a priority and when it comes to cutting with plasma, eye protection is very important. When using 45 amps, you will need to wear a minimum of grade 6 shielding to protect your eyes from the plasma arc. If you’re cutting in a large workshop or classroom, you may want to take a look at our enclosures for additional protection.

What environment should the machine be kept in?

The console must always be kept dry, but the machine can safely be used in damp conditions. However, we strongly advise that you keep your machine in a dry environment as dampness will impact the lifespan of the consumables.

Delivery lead time?

We ask our customers to allow for four weeks from the time of order to delivery and install but please call for specific requirements. We will provide you with a more exact delivery time you place your order.